How to Remove Background with Select Subject in Photoshop

Removing backgrounds in Photoshop is a common task for designers photographers and digital artists. One of the most efficient tools for this purpose is Select Subject an AI-powered feature that automatically detects and selects the main subject in an image. This method saves time compared to manual selection tools like the Pen Tool or Quick Selection.

The Select Subject function analyzes the image and identifies the primary object with high accuracy making it ideal for portraits product photos and other compositions with clear foreground elements. However for best results the image should have good contrast between the subject and the background.

In this guide we will walk through the step-by-step process of using Select Subject to isolate and remove backgrounds in Photoshop. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user mastering this technique will streamline your workflow and improve precision in image editing.

Step 1: Open Your Image and Select the Subject with One Click

Launch Photoshop and open your image by navigating to File > Open or pressing Ctrl+O (Windows) or Cmd+O (Mac).

Ensure the correct layer is selected in the Layers panel. If your image is locked as a background layer double-click it to convert it into an editable layer.

Go to the Toolbar and choose the Quick Selection Tool or press W. In the options bar click Select Subject. Photoshop will automatically detect and outline the main subject in your image.

If the selection isn’t perfect refine it using the Add to Selection or Subtract from Selection options in the toolbar. Hold Alt (Windows) or Option (Mac) while brushing to remove unwanted areas.

Once satisfied proceed to the next step to remove the background.

Step 2: Refine the Selection Edges for a Clean Cutout

After using Select Subject to make an initial selection refine the edges for a precise cutout. Open the „Select and Mask” workspace by clicking „Select” > „Select and Mask” or pressing Ctrl+Alt+R (Cmd+Option+R on Mac). Use the „Refine Edge Brush Tool” to smooth jagged edges especially around hair or complex details.

Adjust the „Smooth” slider to reduce harsh lines and the „Feather” slider for softer transitions. Enable „Decontaminate Colors” to remove background color spills on the subject. Zoom in and inspect edges closely using the „View Mode” dropdown to check against different backgrounds.

For advanced control tweak „Contrast” and „Shift Edge” sliders. Avoid over-processing–subtle adjustments yield the most natural results. Once satisfied output the selection as a „Layer Mask” for non-destructive editing. For more Photoshop techniques explore adobe photoshop cc cracked.

Step 3: Remove the Background and Save in the Right Format

After selecting the subject press Delete or Backspace to remove the background. Alternatively add a layer mask by clicking the Add Layer Mask icon at the bottom of the Layers panel. This keeps the subject intact while hiding the background.

Refine the edges by clicking Select and Mask in the options bar. Adjust Edge Detection Smooth and Feather to clean up any rough areas. Use the Brush Tool for precise corrections.

To save go to File > Export > Quick Export as PNG for transparent backgrounds. For high-quality prints choose File > Save As and select TIFF or PSD. For web use pick JPEG if transparency isn’t needed.